It’s an open secret that a significant number of American women struggling with fertility issues often choose to travel abroad. The substantial cost difference between IVF treatments in the United States and those in countries like Spain, the Czech Republic, or other countries in Europe and Asia is the driving force behind this trend.
In recent years, however, we’ve been hearing more and more about women trying to become mothers through IVF in a certain country. This country is small in size but big in history; it’s in Europe and it’s called Greece. Who doesn’t remember from high school that Greece is the birthplace of medicine, democracy, and the entirety of Western Civilization?
We had the privilege of speaking with Dr. Thanos Paraschos, a Greek physician and fertility specialist, who shed light on why Greece has become an international destination for fertility treatments.
Dr. Paraschos, you’re known in your country as the obstetrician to the wife of Prime Minister Kostas Karamanlis, as well as numerous media celebrities. No doubt Greek women are familiar with you and EmBIO IVF clinic in Athens. But what about American women? Do you often see patients from the United States at your clinic?
In fact, I have had the privilege of serving many well-known personalities in Greece. However, our clinic, EmBIO IVF, does not cater exclusively to Greek patients. We have had the honor of welcoming and assisting many American women seeking IVF treatment.
Our reputation for quality care and successful treatments has extended beyond Greek borders, attracting patients from all over the world, including the United States, Europe, Arab countries and Australia. American women, who often face high costs for IVF treatments in their own country, find our clinic a viable, cost-effective alternative without compromising on quality or success rates.
So yes, we often welcome American patients to our clinic, and we are committed to providing them with the best possible care, as we do for all our patients, regardless of their country of origin.
What factors motivate American women to travel thousands of miles, across continents, to seek IVF treatment in Greece?
The primary reason is the unique blend of quality, success rates, and cost-effectiveness that Greece offers in the field of reproductive medicine.
First, IVF treatments in the United States can be prohibitively expensive for many. In contrast, Greece offers these treatments at a fraction of the cost, making it a more financially accessible option without compromising the quality of care.
Second, Greek fertility clinics, including our EmBIO IVF clinic, are known for their high success rates due to the advanced technologies we use and the expertise of our medical professionals. Our team’s extensive experience and dedication ensures that each patient receives personalized care tailored to their specific needs.
Finally, Greece’s robust healthcare regulations ensure that all procedures meet international standards of quality and safety. This adherence to strict protocols assures American women that they are in safe and competent hands.
In addition, Greece is a beautiful country with a rich cultural heritage that also offers a serene and relaxing environment. This aspect, while not directly related to the medical procedure, can positively contribute to the overall experience of patients undergoing the emotionally intense journey of IVF treatment.
So it’s a combination of these factors – quality, affordability, high success rates, strict health regulations, and the appealing environment – that motivate American women to travel thousands of miles to Greece for their IVF treatments.
Are there waiting lists for fertility treatments in Greece that require an egg donor? Are there any age restrictions on women who wish to undergo these procedures?
For fertility treatments that require an egg donor in Greece, waiting times can vary depending on a number of factors, including the specifics of a patient’s case and the clinic’s schedule. While I cannot speak for all clinics in Greece, at EmBIO IVF we have essentially eliminated waiting lists. As a result, IVF treatment can begin immediately once a woman or couple has completed the required medical evaluations.
As for age restrictions, Greece is known for its progressive approach in offering reproductive treatments to a wider age range compared to some countries. With the recent law of 2022, the age limit for women undergoing IVF treatments in Greece has been extended to 54 years. This change represents a significant step forward in expanding access to reproductive health care and giving more women the opportunity to experience motherhood.
At EmBIO IVF, we are fully committed to following these guidelines and ensuring the highest standard of care for all our patients, regardless of their age.
Could you provide insight into the success rates associated with IVF procedures involving egg donation at your clinic? In addition, could you provide an estimate of the costs associated with such treatment?
I’m happy to provide this information. At EmBIO IVF, we are proud of our high success rates in IVF procedures using donor eggs. Currently, our success rate is an impressive 78%. This is a testament to the dedication of our team, our advanced technologies and our personalized approach to each patient’s needs.
In terms of cost, an IVF procedure with egg donation at our clinic is priced at 5500€, which is approximately 6000 US dollars. We believe this is excellent value for money given our high success rates and the comprehensive care we provide. As always, our primary goal is to offer cost-effective treatments without compromising quality or success.
Dr. Paraschos, we’re aware that surrogacy can sometimes be a complex issue due to its legal and ethical implications. Could you clarify whether surrogacy is a viable option in Greece? If so, does your clinic assist couples in finding a surrogate if needed? I’m also curious about the diversity of your patient base. Does EmBIO IVF extend its services to all, including couples, single women and those from the lesbian community?
Surrogacy is indeed a viable and legal option in Greece. At EmBIO IVF, we’re committed to making the dream of parenthood a reality for everyone, regardless of their relationship status or sexual orientation. We understand that surrogacy can be an emotionally charged process, and our team is here to provide support, guidance and assistance every step of the way, including helping to find a suitable surrogate if needed.
In terms of who we treat, our doors are open to everyone. We believe in the universality of the desire for parenthood and the joy it can bring. We welcome and offer our services to couples of all kinds, single women, and certainly members of the LGBTQ+ community. Love is love, and we’re here to help anyone who wants to nurture that love through the gift of a child.
We recognize that each journey to parenthood is unique and deserves respect, understanding, and a personalized approach. That’s our commitment to every patient at EmBIO IVF.
Greece, with its enchanting beaches and historical landmarks, is undoubtedly a premier vacation destination. I’m curious, Dr. Paraschos, do you think it’s possible for patients to combine their search for fertility treatment with the joys of a Greek vacation?
Absolutely! Greece is indeed an enchanting country, rich in history and culture, and endowed with stunning natural beauty, making it an ideal vacation destination. At EmBIO IVF, we fully support and understand that patients may wish to combine their fertility treatment journey with the experience of a relaxing vacation.
Our team is adept at helping patients organize their treatment schedules in a way that leaves ample time to explore and enjoy the beautiful Greek countryside and culture. We believe that the serene, picturesque environment can contribute positively to the patient’s overall well-being and potentially increase the success of the treatment.
In addition, Greece’s warm climate, friendly locals and exquisite cuisine, along with its historic landmarks and stunning beaches, can provide a comforting backdrop during an emotional journey such as IVF. So yes, it is definitely possible to combine a holiday with fertility treatment in Greece. We’re here to make sure our patients get the best of both.